The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Louis N. Gay, Jr. (ASN: 34663632), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action while serving as Dropmaster of an aircraft of the EIGHTH Air Force supplying airborne troops behind the enemy lines, 18 September 1944. Approximately four minutes before reaching the “drop zone,” two 30 caliber bullets his Sergeant Gay in the left arm and shoulder. Although bleeding profusely and in great pain, he refused medical attention and courageously remained at his station. Arriving over the designated area, he manipulated the release with the use of only his right hand, dropping the vitally needed supplies as scheduled. Not until then did he allow his wounds to be treated. The fortitude and devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Gay reflect the highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.